Schiff Bases and Their Metal Complexes as Antimicrobial Agents: Review of Antibacterial, Antifungal, and Antiviral Activities

Schiff bases have extraordinary chemical diversity and are easily produced by condensation of primary amines with carbonyl compounds. A broad range of biological activities is supported by their structural diversity and potent metal-chelating capabilities. According to studies, Schiff base ligands and their corresponding metal complexes are powerful antibacterial, antiviral, as well as antifungal substances which have remarkable effectiveness against microbes that are resistant to many drugs. Their medicinal potential is frequently increased by structural alterations and coordination with transition metals. This study highlights the potential of Schiff bases and their complexes as scaffolds for the development of next-generation antimicrobial drugs by summarizing recent developments in their antimicrobial screenings.